Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the ultimate answer to your next crave-worthy weeknight meal. They’re fast, absolutely bursting with vibrant flavors, boldly colorful, and so much fun to eat—handheld and loaded with savory chicken, crunchy veggies, and a lively sauce that hits every taste bud. Whether you’re looking to lighten up dinnertime or just want a punchy new way to get your chicken fix, these lettuce wraps pack a fresh, zesty punch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps keep things delightfully simple while letting each ingredient really shine. From crisp lettuce to aromatic ginger and the delightful crunch of peanuts, you’ll love how every bite has its own role in the flavor symphony.
- Ground chicken (1 lb): Lean and juicy, it eagerly soaks up all the punchy flavors in this dish.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): A neutral oil helps everything sizzle and cook evenly without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth as the flavor base for the wraps.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings warmth and a pronounced, irresistible aroma.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 tablespoon): Adds zippy brightness and a hint of heat to wake up your palate.
- Red bell pepper, diced (1): For a sweet crunch and a beautiful pop of color.
- Shredded carrots (1/4 cup): Give the filling a pretty contrast and subtle earthiness.
- Green onions, chopped (1/4 cup): Offer a gentle bite and vibrant finish right at the end.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): Delivers an herby freshness, balancing every savory note.
- Chopped peanuts (1/4 cup): Give a crave-worthy crunch and a hint of richness.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds savory depth; try low-sodium for a lighter option.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): A hit of sweetness and complexity that’s classic in Thai-inspired wraps.
- Fish sauce (1 tablespoon): Packs an umami punch, making the flavors pop (don’t skip it!).
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up every ingredient and adds a little zing.
- Sriracha (1 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a little heat—adjust to your taste.
- Butter or Bibb lettuce (1 head, leaves separated and washed): Forms the perfect crisp, cool shell for your filling.
How to Make Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Step 1: Sauté Fragrant Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it softens and becomes translucent. Stir in your garlic and grated ginger and let their aromas fill your kitchen as they sizzle for another minute. This base is what gives Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps their unmistakable, mouthwatering character from the very first bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the ground chicken straight into your pan, breaking it up with the back of a spoon so every little bit can brown nicely. Cook until there’s no more pink left and it looks juicy and tender—usually about 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken will soak up all the savory, aromatic flavors you just built in the pan.
Step 3: Add Fresh Veggies for Crunch
Toss in your diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots, letting them mingle with the chicken. Sauté everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the veggies get slightly tender but still keep their delightful crunch. These veggies will give your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps vibrant color and a pop of freshness in every bite.
Step 4: Stir in Sauces and Spice
Now, pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and sriracha (if you’re feeling feisty!). Give it all a good stir to evenly coat every piece of chicken and veggie. You’ll see the mixture turn glossy and fragrant—that’s when the magic happens!
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Crunch
Once you’ve removed the pan from the heat, scatter the chopped green onions, cilantro, and peanuts over the filling. Gently fold everything together so you get herby freshness and nutty crunch running all the way through your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps.
Step 6: Serve in Lettuce Cups
Spoon the warm filling into each crisp lettuce leaf. Whether you fold them up taco-style or let everyone make their own at the table, serving immediately ensures your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are crisp, bright, and totally irresistible.
How to Serve Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped peanuts, a few fresh cilantro leaves, some thinly sliced red chili, or even a little extra splash of lime juice can all elevate your Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Each garnish adds an arena of textures and flavors, letting everyone customize their wraps exactly as they like.
Side Dishes
These wraps are so satisfying and flavor-packed, but you can make them a heartier meal with a side of steamed jasmine rice, a bowl of spicy cucumber salad, or a refreshing mango slaw. This way, your table feels like a little Thai-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, try creating a build-your-own Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps platter. Pile each ingredient into little bowls—filling, herbs, garnishes, and lettuce leaves—so everyone can craft wraps their way. If you’re packing lunch, keep the filling and lettuce separate until serving to ensure the freshest crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep the lettuce leaves separate to avoid wilting, so they stay crisp and fresh for your next meal.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the cooked chicken filling! Cool it completely, then tuck it away in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. When a craving hits, you’ve got the heart of Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps ready to go—just thaw and reheat when you need it.
Reheating
Reheat the filling gently in a skillet over low heat, or pop it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until steaming hot. Stir well so the flavors are evenly restored—then scoop into fresh, crisp lettuce leaves for a second round of deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as an easy swap, giving you a similar texture and absorbing all those fab flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re looking to switch things up or if that’s what you have on hand.
Are Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! Just use gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari) to ensure your wraps fit your dietary needs—everything else is naturally gluten-free, making these wraps a great choice for sharing with friends and family.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare the chicken filling up to two days in advance. Simply reheat and serve in fresh lettuce cups when ready—it’s a huge time-saver, especially for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
What’s the best lettuce for Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps?
Look for butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce—both have wide, sturdy leaves that are soft yet hold their shape when loaded up with filling. Romaine can work in a pinch, but avoid iceberg as it tends to break more easily.
How can I make these wraps vegetarian?
Simply substitute the ground chicken with crumbled tofu or tempeh, and use a plant-based fish sauce alternative or extra soy sauce to keep the deliciously umami flavor alive. Don’t forget plenty of crunchy veggies for texture!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps at home, this is your sign to give them a whirl! They’re quick, full of color, and absolutely bursting with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights, lunchboxes, or a fun dinner with friends. You’re just a handful of fresh ingredients and a skillet away from one of the most satisfying meals you’ll ever wrap up. Enjoy!
Print
Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a low-carb, Asian-inspired meal. The ground chicken is seasoned with a blend of savory and tangy sauces, then topped with crunchy veggies and nuts, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1 head butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce leaves, separated and washed
For the Filling:
To Serve:
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 more minute.
- Cook the chicken: Add ground chicken to the skillet and cook until no longer pink.
- Add vegetables: Stir in bell pepper and carrots and cook until slightly tender.
- Season the filling: Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Stir to combine.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and mix in green onions, cilantro, and peanuts. Spoon the filling into lettuce leaves and serve.
Notes
- For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken.
- Adjust lime juice or sriracha to taste.
- Leftover filling can be refrigerated and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 wraps
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
